Intelligent Systems Games Collection
Founded in 1986 as a Nintendo second-party developer, Intelligent Systems has crafted some of gaming's most beloved tactical and puzzle franchises. Renowned for blending deep strategy with charismatic characters, the Kyoto-based studio operates as Nintendo's stealth powerhouse, delivering consistently high-quality titles that redefine genres.
Pioneering Gameplay Innovations
The studio revolutionized multiple genres:- Fire Emblem (1990–present): Created the SRPG (Strategy RPG) genre with permadeath mechanics and interwoven character relationships.
- Advance Wars (2001): Modernized turn-based military strategy with colorful visuals and accessible depth.
- Panel de Pon/Puzzle League (1995): Invented the competitive tile-matching puzzle genre later popularized by Tetris Attack.
Technical Breakthroughs
Intelligent Systems pushed hardware limits:- Super Mario Bros. 2 (1988): Developed the Famicom Disk System's first 2MB game with vertical scrolling.
- Paper Mario (2000): Introduced "2.5D" diorama aesthetics that became a Nintendo staple.
- WarioWare (2003): Pioneered microgame concepts that influenced mobile gaming.
Modern Era & Cultural Impact
Recent achievements include:- Fire Emblem: Three Houses (2019): Sold over 4M copies, becoming the series' best-selling entry.
- Paper Mario: The Origami King (2020): Reinvented RPG battles with ring-based puzzles.
- Metroid Dread (2021): Revived the 2D Metroidvania genre after 19 years to critical acclaim.
The studio's character designs (e.g., Fire Emblem's Marth) are iconic in gaming culture.
Conclusion
For 35+ years, Intelligent Systems has operated at the intersection of strategy and charm. Their ability to evolve core franchises while incubating new ideas (like Code Name: S.T.E.A.M.) ensures their position as Nintendo's most versatile development partner.
Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light
1990
Tactical RPGThe first game in the Fire Emblem series, introducing tactical RPG gameplay with permadeath mechanics. Set in the continent of Archanea, it follows Prince Marth's quest to reclaim his kingdom from the evil dragon Medeus.
Fire Emblem Gaiden
1992
Tactical RPGThe second installment in the Fire Emblem series, featuring experimental gameplay with dungeon exploration and free character movement between two parallel storylines. Follows Alm and Celica's separate journeys across the continent of Valentia.
Mario Kart: Super Circuit
2001
Kart RacingThe first portable Mario Kart game featuring all 20 tracks from Super Mario Kart (SNES) plus 20 new courses. Introduces the 'Quick Run' mode for on-the-go racing and maintains the classic drift mechanics.
WarioWare: Twisted!
2004
PartyThe groundbreaking sequel features a built-in gyro sensor for motion-controlled microgames. Includes over 180 new microgames designed around spinning, tilting, and shaking the cartridge, packaged with a rumble motor for tactile feedback.
Advance Wars
2001
Tactical RPGThe first Western release of Nintendo's long-running Wars series introduces turn-based tactical combat with charming CO units. Features 114 maps across Campaign, Versus, and Design modes with deep fog-of-war mechanics.
Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising
2003
Tactical RPGThe direct sequel enhances the original formula with new COs, dual-CO Tag Powers, and the sinister Black Hole Army. Introduces weather effects and Neotanks while expanding the map editor with custom victory conditions.
Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones
2004
Tactical RPGThe second Fire Emblem title for GBA introduces a world map with optional battles, branching promotions, and twin protagonists Eirika and Ephraim. Set in Magvel where five Sacred Stones protect the land from ancient evil.
Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade
2003
Tactical RPGThe first Fire Emblem game released internationally, introducing Western audiences to the series. Follows young lords Eliwood, Hector, and Lyn as they uncover a conspiracy threatening the continent of Elibe.
Fire Emblem: The Binding Blade
2002
Tactical RPGFire Emblem: The Binding Blade is a tactical role-playing game developed by Intelligent Systems and published by Nintendo for the Game Boy Advance. It is the sixth installment in the Fire Emblem series and serves as a prequel to Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade. Players control Roy and his army in strategic battles across the continent of Elibe.
Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War
1996
Tactical RPGThe fourth Fire Emblem game introduces generational gameplay across two sagas. Players lead crusaders' descendants through political intrigue and continent-spanning battles in the kingdom of Jugdral.
Paper Mario
2000
RPGA revolutionary paper-style RPG! As paper-thin Mario, team up with partners like Goombario to rescue Peach from Bowser using timed-action battles and paper transformations.